da betway： Adam Armstrong's goal secured Southampton an immediate return to the Premier League with a 1-0 Championship play-off final win over Leeds United.
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Southampton beat Leeds 1-0 in play-off finalSaints make instant return to Premier LeagueArmstrong scores game's only goal at WembleyTELL ME MORE
Leeds, who ended up in the play-offs after losing four of their final six Championship games, began the brighter but fell behind in the 24th minute when Armstrong coolly slotted past Illan Meslier after Southampton capitalised on some woeful defending at the back. Leeds' French goalkeeper made a vital stop to deny Armstrong again as Saints deservedly went into the break one goal to the good. Daniel Farke's men were on the front foot after the interval but could not fashion any noteworthy chances against a well-organised Southampton side. Substitute Dan James rattled a strike against the bar late on and brought a good save out of Alex McCarthy but for all Leeds' huff and puff, they lacked quality in the Saints box and in the end Russell Martin's players earned their triumph at Wembley.
AdvertisementGettyTHE MVP
While West Ham loanee Flynn Downes ran the show in midfield, goals win matches and Adam Armstrong's well-taken strike – his 24th of the season – secured Southampton the victory. The forward was sharp in attack and Leeds always looked shaky when the 27-year-old was on the ball in the final third.
GettyTHE BIG LOSER
While he has had an excellent season for Leeds, Ethan Ampadu inexplicably stepped out of defence to try and close down Will Smallbone, leaving Armstrong unmarked, and the diminutive striker slotted home with aplomb. That defensive mistake ultimately settled the contest. Leeds, who briefly topped the Championship table before finishing behind Leicester City and Ipswich Town in the automatic promotion spots, have now lost all six play-off campaigns they have been in.
GettyWHAT COMES NEXT?
Southampton finished bottom of the Premier League in 2022-23 – while Leeds finished in 19th – but will now prepare for life in the English top-flight once again, whereas Farke's team will have to play in the Championship next term.